Question 52 OSV02 - Mate - Offshore Supply Vessels

The Correct Answer is A. **Explanation for Option A (Correct):** Option A is correct because maritime safety regulations, specifically those governing tank vessels (such as those found in the US Coast Guard regulations (33 CFR Subchapter O) or SOLAS requirements related to inerting and ventilation), mandate that spaces containing cargo pumps and piping (cargo pumprooms) on vessels carrying flammable or combustible liquid cargoes (including grades C and D) must have access directly from the open deck. This requirement ensures that in the event of a vapor release, fire, or emergency, personnel can enter or evacuate the space safely without passing through other enclosed areas of the vessel, minimizing the risk of vapor migration into accommodation spaces, machinery spaces, or control stations, and ensuring rapid access for emergency responders. Direct open deck access facilitates maximum ventilation and dispersion of flammable vapors. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** **B) The pumproom access shall only be from enclosed areas free from sources of vapor ignition:** This is incorrect. The primary requirement is direct access from the open deck (a non-enclosed, naturally ventilated area). While enclosed areas must be free from ignition sources, deliberately placing the primary access point within an enclosed area contradicts the fundamental safety principle of preventing vapor accumulation and spread within the vessel's hull. **C) The pumproom access shall be from within the vessel:** This is incorrect and dangerous. Allowing access from within the vessel (e.g., from an alleyway, engine room, or accommodation space) would provide a path for flammable cargo vapors to enter inhabited or machinery spaces, greatly increasing the risk of fire or explosion. Regulations strictly prohibit this arrangement. **D) The pumproom access shall be from areas equipped with power ventilation:** This is incorrect. While pumprooms themselves must be equipped with powerful mechanical ventilation (typically required to run continuously), the **access requirement** focuses on preventing vapor migration and ensuring safety upon entry/exit. Relying solely on a mechanically ventilated enclosed space for access (instead of the open deck) still poses the risk of ventilation failure or vapor buildup near the access point. The mandate is direct access from the open air/open deck, irrespective of internal ventilation systems.